Dylan's Pickles

Baby Janie

2010-05-14T16:15:00.002-05:00

Vroom, Vroom, Baby!

2010-04-28T21:03:00.000-05:00

the road not taken

2010-04-28T13:02:00.000-05:00

I was inspired by Robert Frost...

Rock-N-Romp

2010-04-28T12:59:00.000-05:00

I had a blast at the Rock-N-Romp this weekend, hosted by the Dixon Gallery and Gardens. What? You don't believe me? Well, here's proof...

It's Spring! Or Maybe Even Summer!

2010-03-31T22:31:00.000-05:00

It is officially Springtime and possibly even Summer. And I love it. I love being outside, walking and playing around the neighborhood, especially the VECA Greenline and the Levitt Shell and Overton Park. See some of my latest photos below.

My First Sleep-Over

2010-03-28T23:52:00.000-05:00

Grandaddy emailed Mommy and Daddy the other day with a thought: I need be prepared to sleep away form home when the new baby comes. So, he suggested that I go home with them after church and lunch today. We thought that was a good idea and packed for the night away.

Everyone thought that, for sure, I would fall asleep on the way out there. But, despite glazing over a few times, I refused to fall completely out. I'd see a big truck and start squealing, waking myself up. And, when we got there, I just wanted to run around and play.

Well, I finally went down for a nap at 5:00 and slept until 6:30, hours behind schedule. And then I stayed up until 10! I think I may ask to stay over with Grandmommy and Grandaddy more often!

I Love Snow!

2010-02-16T00:36:00.000-06:00

I don't have much by way of worldly experience yet, but one thing I've learned from my short time on this planet is that I love snow. I really do. Nothing in particular about it. I just love it.

In my 19 months, I have already seen more snow than most of my family did in their first decade of life. And it keeps on coming.

You've already read about two weeks ago. And a month ago. Well, it snowed again last week. I mean, it snowed good, about 4 inches or so. Then, when it was pretty much all gone, it snowed another inch or so last night. And then again today there was a bit of snow falling for a while. But nothing beats the fun I had last week.

As is becoming our routine on snow days, we walked to Cafe Eclectic, our neighborhood hangout, for breakfast. I just love their waffles. And their chocolate milk boxes. (Yes, I know that there's nothing special about their milk boxes, but it's the only place I'm allowed to get one.)

Like Daddy, Aunt Kelly was home, school being canceled and all, but Uncle Grant had to go to work. So we said too bad for him and had a fun time with her. Kelly brought Maya over to play with Layla and that was pretty funny. Layla's not a puppy anymore like Maya.

We walked down to the VECA Greenline and built a snow person. Mommy brought tools and props and everything. I especially enjoyed shoveling snow. And then I just had some fun running around, crunching the snow underfoot. I got tired from running and plopped down. Mommy came and sat down beside me and we ate some snow, although I wasn't quite sure what to make of that.

The snow hung around for a few days and I had to walk down to the Greenline at least once a day to play in it. Sure, I was getting stir crazy being couped up in the house all day. But, like I said, I love the snow.

Anyway, enough talk. Here are the pictures.

Fun, Fun in the Snow

2010-01-30T16:43:00.000-06:00

Daddy got to stay home with us yesterday since they cancelled school because of the weather. Me and Mommy were so glad.

At first it was just raining, then the rain started freezing. Soon, a wintry mix started to fall and it got pretty nasty out. And it wasn't really the kind of stuff you want to play in, so we stayed inside. Grandaddy stopped by for a short visit and helped the day go by.

It finally started snowing pretty good during my naptime. But it wasn't until dark that I finally was able to play in it. I was getting stir crazy being trapped inside all day, so I convinced Daddy to let me out for a while.

It snowed some more overnight and everything froze solid, which made it kind of dangerous. But we decided to take a stroll through the 'hood anyway. Me and Daddy ran around, while Mommy worried we might slip and fall. But we looked out for her and helped her past the treacherous spots.

We ended up around the corner at Cafe Eclectic and had a nice breakfast. Well, Mommy and Daddy had a nice breakfast. I mostly had fun playing with the kids at the booth behind us. Oh, and I discovered the joy of a chocolate milk box (my first!) and drinking through a straw.

All the fun in the snow must have tuckered me out because I fell asleep in my high chair almost as soon as I started eating lunch.

I can't wait to play some more!

Fun at the Zoo

2010-01-24T17:32:00.000-06:00

It was shaping up to be a wonderful day, with weather fit for springtime. On the way home from church, Mommy lamented that it was close to naptime and we couldn't go to the zoo. Subsequently, I fell asleep in my high-chair eating lunch.

Upon waking, after I finished the rest of my lunch, Daddy decided it was indeed a good day for the Memphis Zoo. By that time Mommy didn't feel like walking around the big zoo, so she stayed behind. We thought that today would be a good day to leave the stroller behind as well. And, with it so near to closing time, we figured we ought to drive instead of walk. It turned out to be good that we did.

Cat Country, in contrast to its usual atmosphere, was full of life. Those cats are always just sitting around doing nothing when I go, although that may have to do with the fact that I usually go to the zoo in the morning and they've not been awake for long. But today they were walking around and even playing with each other. What fun!

It was feeding time over at the Farm, my favorite place in the zoo, so I didn't get to pet anyone. That's okay, though; I always get to play with them.

Since we went sans stroller, I got to walk and roam all around, just like the big boy that I am. Daddy carried me around on his shoulders between exhibits, though, to move us along quicker.

The pandas, usually so lazy, were lots of fun today, too! One of them was even outside. The other was playing inside, interacting with all of us visitors.

The elephants weren't out, so we hurried to the Northwest Passage. The panda bears weren't doing much, but the sea lions were showing off a bit. Two were posing on rocks and another was swimming by, trying to get my attention. It was beginning to get dark, though, and I didn't much care.

One of the black bears came strutting right up to me and the bald eagles were talking to me. So that was fun!

It was getting darker and darker, with storm clouds approaching. But we wanted to see the grizzlies. As soon as we walked up to the Teton Trek. We saw the bears and turned to leave.

All of a sudden, the bottom just dropped. Fortunately, the tram pulled up to save us.

But it was pouring down rain by the time the tram dropped us near the front gate. We had to run to the gate, then run to the car. And it was some kind of fun running in the rain.

Tomorrow promises even more fun. I have a friend coming over to play!

Happy Birthday, Mommy!

2010-01-18T08:24:00.001-06:00

We helped Mommy celebrate her birthday this weekend and I gave her lots of kisses! Her birthday was on Saturday, but she celebrated all weekend long.

First, Uncle Grant and Aunt Kelly came over on Friday so that Mommy and Daddy could go out to dinner with some friends. I like Grant and Kelly! Oh, and Aunt Kelly made a cake for Mommy, complete with (well, we won't say how many) candles!

Then, me and Daddy had a boy's day on Saturday, as Mommy had a girl's day (chick flick, then chocolate fondue) with several girlfriends. We didn't get into too much trouble!

I usually go to sleep after church on Sunday, but I decided I would stay awake yesterday so that we could go out to eat with Grandaddy and Grandmommy. We had Central BBQ! It was hard, but I did it just for Mommy!

Last night, after I finished dinner, Daddy was officially in charge of me. Why? Well, Mommy had a big night planned, with both the Golden Globe Awards and Return to Cranford (PBS Classic) on. I didn't want to let Mommy go, though, but relented when Daddy promised that we would read my Puff book for bedtime.

This morning, I let Mommy sleep in until 7:30, then let her nod off for a short nap a few minutes ago.

And it's finally warming up here, so we're heading up to the zoo! Uncle Grant is coming with us. This, too, is part of Mommy's birthday, as she has been missing our trips of late. (We did make a trip with Michael the other day, though.)

So, we love you, Mommy! And we hope you had the happiest of all birthdays!

Snow and Frigid Weather

2010-01-10T20:28:00.000-06:00

So, winter finally arrived in Memphis last week and it's making me stir crazy!

It snowed on Thursday and we were hoping Daddy could stay home. But, no. All the schools around were closed (the county schools--in fact every county in every direction). The city schools, though, were open.

Mommy and me took a nice walk in the snow. We went a few blocks and I especially enjoyed crunching through the inch of snow and the frozen grass. So cool.

Most of the snow melted with the sun, but frigid weather was a-coming. In fact, it was easily in single digits and they cancelled school (for Daddy and the city kids, but not the county). I woke up, but went back to sleep with Mommy and we thought Daddy had left. So it was some surprise when he walked in after he heard us getting up. Mommy screamed, which made me laugh so hard. That Daddy!

Anyway, so it hasn't got above freezing since. And that means that I haven't left the house but a few times. It's driving me crazy.

More New Pics!!!

2010-01-01T12:33:00.000-06:00

So, we've been working diligently over the past couple days to get all the photos up.

And...now we're done. The Flickr page is updated right up to today.

If you're still here, you probably just need to see a preview. Once you see what's up, you'll head over there in no time at all. So, for you, here are the previews:

Christmas Day in Pictures

2009-12-28T16:22:00.000-06:00

Photo Slideshow!!!

2009-12-28T13:19:00.000-06:00

Dylan’s Studio Session

Santa Photo

2009-12-22T11:55:00.000-06:00

As promised, here is the picture of me with Santa:

Santa Claus!

2009-12-19T15:17:00.000-06:00

Guess what, guess what, guess what??? I saw Santa Claus today! And he was so cool. He picked me up and put me on his lap, then asked what I wanted for Christmas. Well, in response, I pointed at his beard and said, "That!" Wouldn't that be something, me with a big white beard? Mommy interrupted and told him I'd like some trains and blocks, but I really want that beard. Jeez, Mom!

Pictures of Santa will be up shortly, but I do have pictures from the Enchanted Forest at the Pink Palace, which is where Santa was. Here's a sample:

Zoo Lights!

2009-12-19T09:48:00.000-06:00

Last night was lots of fun.

First, I met a friend at the new(-ish) Chick-Fil-A--you know, the one with the church facade and the only play area in town.

Then, I went with a couple friends to the zoo for Zoo Lights. We played in the snow and saw the light displays and rode the train saw the reindeer and got to pet some of the animals.

But my favorite part of the entire night was the person in the timberwolf costume. I don't know what it is, but I really like large fuzzy costumes. It started with the Panda at Zoo Boo, then continued with at the St Jude Marathon. And now it's a timberwolf.

I almost didn't make it home awake.

Tweet, Tweet!

2009-12-17T20:01:00.000-06:00

I, your faithful blogger, am now officially a micro-blogger as well.

Yes, that's right. Mr Pickle is on Twitter. Follow me at @DylansPickles. For those of you who don't know, that means http://twitter.com/DylansPickles. So, now I can send you more frequent bits that normally would not make a post here.

But, as you may have noticed already, my Tweets will show up at the top of this page, where I've installed a new gadget.

Enjoy!

And We're Back!

2009-12-10T20:20:00.001-06:00

No excuses, right, but the internet was down for over a week. Too much happened over that time, so we won't rehash. If you really want to know the missing details, just call.

But, I did participate in my first marathon. Over the past month or so, we have been logging miles as part of the St Jude Marathon's Family Race. On race day, we just did one mile.

The last leg of the race led us through the center field wall at AutoZone Park (home of the Memphis Redbirds, the AAA affiliate of the StL Cardinals). I rode in the stroller until we arrived at the stadium, at which point I had to get out and push the stroller myself. Once inside the stadium, the family course led us around the left field warning track, through the finish line, and then down the third base foul territory.

I forgot about the stroller as we crossed the finish line, as I was distracted by Rocky the Redbird. He was so cool that I just ran and jumped up into his arms.

Take a look:

I really liked the big numbers on the wall in left field, too:

Thankful for...

2009-11-28T08:43:00.000-06:00

I am thankful for...

Mommy and Daddy,
Grandmommy and Grandaddy,
Grandma and Pa,
Uncle Grant and Aunt Kelly,
Aunt Hillary and Uncle Patrick,
cousins Trevor and Jayda,
Layla Dog,
other family,
all my friends,
and, and...

MY NEW BROTHER OR SISTER!!!!!

That's right, I'm going to be a big brother in May. And look at him/her:

Turkey Day Pics!

2009-11-27T20:26:00.001-06:00

There are lots and lots of new photos over at the Flickr page.

Wait, you're still here? Get over there now (NOW!) and peruse the pictures.

Click the link above or go to http://www.flickr.com/photos/dylanpickle/.

Here are some samples:

And here's a picture of Mommy and her bum knee:

(Not So) Black Friday

2009-11-27T18:09:00.001-06:00

They call this 'Black Friday.' Well, what do they know?

Today was a good day, a day that did not involve shopping. I hear that's the thing to do on this day after Thanksgiving, but I beg to differ. I have a few ideas as to how one should spend the day after Thanksgiving, thank you very much, and if you read on you'll find out what they are.

The first thing you should do, upon waking, is snuggle. I prefer to snuggle with Mommy and Daddy and Layla.

When you've had enough of that, you should play until you work up an appetite, at which point you should drink some milk or some juice and eat a good breakfast.

Now, the next part is optional. Me and Mommy and Daddy got our hair done. This is optional for the day after Thanksgiving, but not optional for a visit to Grandma's house.

Next, you should get outside for a bit. I chose to walk (er, ride in the stroller) to the playground, then push my stroller all the way back.

By this time, you should be ready for a nap. So, go ahead and take one. I take naps daily, but you may not be as lucky. Thus, I suggest that you take advantage of the opportunity. And, if anyone says anything, just tell them to come talk to me.

When you wake up, you will probably be hungry. You could have leftovers, but I suggest that you save the leftovers for later (dinner, the next few days) and go out. I had spinach-artichoke dip and sweet potato fries.

I bet there is someone you need to go see. I bet there is someone who needs you to help them with something. Go see that person. Go help that person. I went to Nane's house to visit and help with her Christmas decorations.

And I bet there is someone you could go see and have some fun. Do it. I went to the Babb's to see their animals. I chased the chickens around, then I petted one. I played with the puppy. I petted the bunny rabbit. And (Surprise!), Mr Railey was in town and drew a bunny on my hand, just as he's been doing for kids for forever and a day.

Being out and on the go will work up an appetite, so you should go home and make some leftovers.

Play some more and light a fire. And skip you bath before bed.

(Oh, and if you have grandparents like mine who won't see you for Christmas but want to have Christmas with you, then you should have a mini-Christmas with them.)

I think the day after is pretty darn close to being as good as Thanksgiving itself. I can't wait until next year!

Gobble, Gobble!

2009-11-26T08:54:00.000-06:00

Happy Turkey Day!

We loaded up the car at bedtime and drove through Tuesday night to Grandma and Pa's house.

It took a long time (8 1/2 hrs, including stops), but I don't remember much of it. The only times I woke up was when we stopped and the bright lights shined in my eyes.

I had a big day yesterday, interrupting my playtime (with Grandma, Pa, cousins Trevor and Jayda, Aunt Hillary, Uncle Patrick, Mommy, Daddy, Layla, Sugar) only for someone to wipe my nose, which is now running. I didn't eat much yesterday, but my appetite was back this morning at breakfast.

Daddy's about to go get Nane and Mema is coming over soon, too. And I can't wait for them to spoil me rotten. (Grandma and Pa are already doing a good job of that!)

We're watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, but I really don't care about cheerleaders and musicals and Rockettes. Bring on Sesame Street! Bring on the Peanuts characters! And bring on Santa Claus! (Get ready, Grandaddy; we'll be calling you when Santa comes.)

This is not my first Thanksgiving, but I was too little to remember last year. But I can tell that, by the smell of things, this is certainly a holiday for me! I hope it's a good one for you.

Poor Mommy and Other Excitement

2009-11-22T20:42:00.000-06:00

Poor Mommy. She hurt her knee, a first degree sprain of the medial collateral ligament (MCL). It happened on Tuesday and, although she is better, she is still having a hard time getting around.

Fortunately, we have great family and friends.

Grandaddy watched me and put me to bed while Daddy took Mommy to the doctor. On day 1, Daddy had to take care of Mommy, while he and Grandaddy took care of me. On day 2, me and Grandaddy had quite a day, as he used his day off to play with me. On day 3, Grandmommy was back in town and she came over to love on me. Mrs Carol, bless her, brought lunch. Then, I went to my friend Michael's house to play. Uncle Grant and Aunt Kelly brought dinner and played.

The weekend has been mostly me and Daddy, but I can tell Mommy is getting better because she is able to do more with me each day. It won't be too long before she's on the floor with me again! Oh, and Aunt Cathy came over last night with dinner and energy to play.

In other words, it's too bad Mommy hurt herself, but I've enjoyed all the visitors!

Don't be a stranger. And don't wait until someone is injured or sick to come play. You don't need an excuse to play with me and love on me. Wait, I am the excuse!

Weekly Roundup

2009-11-14T19:27:00.000-06:00

Sorry to be away, folks. And, really, I don't have a very good reason for not posting in a week. You know, just the ordinary business of being a kid.

That said, such ordinary business can be quite extraordinary, as was the case this week.

The weather--oh the weather!--has been so very nice. A kid couldn't ask for better weather. Maybe someone else could, but not a kid--at least not a kid who likes to be outdoors. I went to the zoo...twice. First, on Monday, with my friend Michael. And then, today, with Evan. And, on a few occasions, I got to walk Layla and run around. And I got to swing in my tree swing and go on lots of walks.

Yesterday was a big day. Mommy and me made a car out of a box. (More on that later.) Then, Daddy took me to another basketball game. (Actually, make that games, with an 's' at the end, because we saw the last quarter of the girls and the first half of the boys.) And, finally, we went to church for movie night on the lawn. (Did I mention the weather yet?)

So, the reason we made a car out of a box is because it was 'Boxcar Movie Night' at church. They were showing Horton Hears A Who! on the lawn, but everyone was invited to show up early to make cars out of boxes. Why? Well, who wouldn't want to sit inside of a car on the lawn to watch a movie? That's what I thought! I see all those hands.

We made my car during the day because we weren't sure (a) if there would be enough boxes, or (b) if there would be boxes my size. (And it turned out that there were plenty of boxes, but they were all too big for me.) At any rate, no one had a boxcar quite a fancy as mine, which was decorated with wrapping paper and felt, as opposed to sidewalk chalk.

I had lots of fun (and ate lots of popcorn!), although I must say that the movie was not so good. Now, the book is quite enjoyable, but the film version just tries way too hard. We would rather kick it old school in this house! (Take that, Jim Carrey.)

Oh, and before I forget, I posted some more photos on the Flickr page. Here are a few.

Boy's Day

2009-11-07T19:18:00.000-06:00

Mommy has been very busy this week making banners for the Missions Banquet at church. And they are very nice. Mommy is so creative. So, anyway, they have to be done before tomorrow.

Plus, sometimes I like to give Mommy a break from me and sometimes I wish I had more time to spend with Daddy. Therefore, we declared today a boy's day.

Me and Daddy played and read and listened to music and went to a basketball game and watched some college football.

With Daddy, I usually like to play with my balls or my cars or my blocks. But, today, I was really into the wooden train set that spells my name. I don't know why; I just was.

Grandaddy and Aunt Cathy got me some new books at the Scholastic Book Fair at church the other night, so I have new books to read, although that doesn't stop me from reading the old ones. Actually, we don't so much read the old ones as much as I identify things on the page when asked. I'm a smarty pants like that.

And Daddy has turned me onto OutKast. I like their beats and especially enjoyed dancing to "Bombs Over Baghdad." What? Are you laughing? We should have a dance off. That'll teach you.

Then, me and Daddy went to watch his students play basketball. The girls were playing when we got there, so we just found a spot in the stands. Between games, though, we followed the girls to our school section and sat there while the boys played. I know the girls were supposed to be watching the game, but that didn't stop me from distracting them.

After missing my nap during the basketball game, I was tuckered out. I held out, though, until I couldn't stay awake any longer. And I went from full speed to slamming on the brakes. My nap my have been late, but it sure was long.

I was so excited when Mommy got home shortly after I woke up. She missed me so, and I missed her, too. In fact, just two minutes before she got home, I started saying, "Momma."

It was a good day!

Chickens!

2009-11-05T16:59:00.000-06:00

trunk-or-treat!

2009-11-01T09:00:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, we had Trunk-or-Treat at church. What's that, you ask? It's where people decorate the trunks of their cars and kids trick-or-treat from car to car.

It sure was fun. And here are some pictures friends took:

Zoo Boo and Other Fun Stuff

2009-10-27T18:42:00.000-05:00

My friends, Naomi and Fay (along with their Mommy, Aunt Sarah), were in town this week. And we had lots and lots of fun together.

On Friday evening, we met up and walked over to the zoo together, in full Halloween costumes. It was Zoo Boo! Most of the animals were inside for the night, but we did get to see the farm animals. That didn't matter much, though, because the zoo was all decorated for Halloween.

In fact, we had seen the decorations last week in the day when we took Grandaddy to the zoo. But it was even cooler at night, with all the spooky lights. There were skeletons and spiders and graveyards and ghosts and ghouls and fog and other fun stuff. And there were trick-or-treat stations, although I didn't much care about them after the first couple.

Today, before they left to head back to North Carolina, we met up with Naomi and Fay at the Children's Museum. I really liked being in the back of the cop car, but Mommy said that had better be the only cop car I find myself in. I colored a picture for Daddy, played with the airplanes, and had fun with Fay in the toddler area. I can't wait to go back!

Pictures from both trips will be forthcoming.

Loved One, Lost

2009-10-24T09:11:00.000-05:00

One who was loved very much was lost this week.

Her name was Mrs Martin and she was special, so special that she would have been 1/2 of my namesake were I a girl. And, if I ever have a sister, the name Margaret will be included in her name.

When Mommy moved to Memphis, Mrs Martin and her husband (and the Poples) acted as grandparents in this new place. When Mommy and Daddy got married, the Martins (and Mrs Pople) served as honorary grandparents for Mommy.

That's how special Mrs Martin was.

We'll miss her terribly. And we'll miss our date for next week to show her my monkey costume.

If only I can be as special as her one day.

15 Months!

2009-10-21T21:09:00.000-05:00

Well, I turned 15 months old today. And I don't feel a day older than 14 months. I'm just kidding about that. You know, people always say something like that and it's pretty silly. And, well, I'm a pretty silly kid.

So, anyway, to celebrate my 15 months of life, I had to get 5 shots. Yes, you read that correctly. Can you believe it? Five? Five! Seriously.

But I'm a trooper, a super trooper even. And I should be, given how big I am. I weighed in at 26 pounds and 32 inches tall, which comes out to be the 75th and 90th percentiles, respectively.

So, yep, I'm a big boy. And I proved it by eating a house. Well, again, not really. But I did have half a burger and some fries for lunch. Then, for dinner, I ate most of a huge Brooklyn slice of cheese from Little Italy. Mommy can only eat one slice, they are so big, and that's what I almost ate.

What can I say, I'm a growing boy. So, look out, because I may be towering over you in the very near future. Enjoy being bigger than me while you can; it won't last long.

Pumpkin Patch!

2009-10-18T19:22:00.000-05:00

We went to Priddy Farms and their pumpkin patch today with Uncle Grant and Aunt Kelly. And we had lots of fun. Don't believe me? Look at these pics:

And look at the Flickr page for more photos.

Hangin' With Pa and Using A Spoon

2009-10-11T18:56:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, we left Pa at the house for a trip to the Farmer's Market. On the way, however, we made a stop to try the beignets at the Beignet Cafe. And it was well worth it. We may have to make that part of our routine.

We came back and had a nap, then took Pa to the zoo. He hadn't been in many years and the zoo has changed a lot in the meantime. He hadn't even seen the pandas. And the latest exhibit, the Teton Trek, actually opened to the public yesterday. Even Daddy hadn't seen it yet, though me and Mommy went during the member's preview last week. The grizzly cubs are pretty cool, as are the timberwolves.

Pa wanted to try a new BBQ place and jumped at the idea of eating at Neely's, which is owned by that couple on the Food Network. I didn't really want any BBQ, but I did discover that I like ketchup. I wouldn't sit in my chair, so I was in Daddy's lap. I saw him dipping fries in ketchup and tried it for myself. I didn't know what I was missing!

Pa also wanted to try some Memphis chicken, so we went to Uncle Lou's after church today to get some of their Sweet Spice Love and honey buttered biscuits.

Oh, and guess what I can do! Give up? I can feed myself with a spoon! I started with my morning yogurt, but it's been pretty messy, mostly due to the fact that I am still learning to use a spoon. But, this evening, Mommy got all excited because I was using my spoon the correct way...for a while, at least.

Pa in Memphis

2009-10-11T08:57:00.000-05:00

Below are a few photos we've taken since Pa arrived in town. More will be posted on Flickr (that's http://www.flickr.com/photos/dylanpickle/) as soon as we can get them up.

Cousin Jayda

2009-10-11T08:43:00.000-05:00

Like I mentioned, Pa is in town. And he brought Grandma's camera. And that means that we have access to the pictures she already had taken.

So, here's some pics of my new cousin Jayda (the last one includes cousin Trevor):

Busy Busy

2009-10-09T09:13:00.001-05:00

So, it has been quite a while since my last post and everyone has been clamoring for an update.

Well, update, we are really busy around here. My apologies.

A few highlights of things you missed:

a wonderful Shell concert by The Prodigals, sponsored by our church and the first attended by Grandmommy and Grandaddy,
half a weekend without Daddy, as he left me and Mommy to go to Pickwick with some guys,
lots of fun with my friend Michael and our Mommies, since our Daddies were together,
the Pink Palace Arts & Crafts Fair with Aunt Cathy (there was a petting zoo and I got a rocking giraffe!),
a cheesy Shell concert for kids that sounded cool (dinosaurs!) but wasn't,
lots o' rain, intermixed with some really nice autumn days,
one evening per week with only Daddy as Mommy leaves us to tutor other kids,
Read for the Record with Eric Carle's The Very Hungry Caterpillar,
some finger painting,
Pa coming to see me(!),
and Daddy on Fall Break!

There, that should catch us up to date.

Oh, did I mention that Pa drove up from the War-Town yesterday? Well, he did. And I am so excited.

Hilarious!!!

2009-09-27T15:26:00.000-05:00

Guess what...I'm hilarious!

It's true. And, while I think it must have been true for a while now, I just found out a few days ago.

You see, every once in a while, Mommy or Daddy or someone will laugh at me. Well, the other day, Daddy laughed so hard that it made me laugh. And now I laugh at myself all the time--because, you know, I'm hilarious.

And, when I say laugh, I really mean laugh hysterically. I'm talking the squealing and screaming kind of laughter, when you lose yourself in joy.

Busy, But Fun!

2009-09-27T13:57:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was a busy, busy, yet fun, day.

First, we all slept a little later than usual. Then, we definitely stayed in bed later--well, all of us except for me, but I stayed in Mommy and Daddy's bed.

Finally, we made it downtown to the Farmer's Market. If nothing else, we have to go down to be around the people and pick up some tomatoes. We also got some basil, snap beans, and ground beef. And Ms Valerie June was playing lovely music, although she was on a break during most of our visit.

After a nap and lunch, we walked over to Clamjamfry and the Scottish Faire at the Presbyterian church down the street. I was too small for most of the stuff for kids, but I was able to pet the sheep! There were also some shepherds and dogs herding sheep in one area. And that was pretty fun to watch.

We walked home and, then, drove over to the park for Nuts! Over Art. Several artists had booths and quite a few even had hands-on activities for kids, but I was too little. Mommy did find a nice print for me by Kong Wee Pang called Bird Tree. It is an orange tree with brown leaves that slowly turn into brown birds flying out of the tree.

Then, we traveled over to Cooper-Young and walked around. Mommy found a few books for me at Burkes. One was Bear Snores On, the full sized edition of which I already have as a board book. I also got Go, Dog. Go! P.D. Eastman's Book of Things That Go and It's Not Easy Being Big!, which is about Big Bird and Elmo. (Add those to The Pigeon Wants a Puppy! and The Pigeon Has Feelings, Too!, both by Mo Willems, that Daddy brought home the other day and I racked up this week!)

We stopped by Young Ave. Deli before leaving for picnic food and headed back to Overton Park. As part of Nuts! Over Art, the Levitt Shell was hosting the Memphis Symphony Orchestra. First came the string quartet, who played some Mozart. A librarian joined them and they accompanied her as she read a children's book. Then the woodwinds took over. Soon, the librarian joined them, reading How I Became a Pirate.

I didn't pay much attention, but ran around with Daddy, playing. I did leave him a few times, though, to play with some other kids. I also had to come play with Uncle Grant and Aunt Kelly when they arrived. And, then, my friend, Michael, showed up and we played.

As you can imagine, I was pooped after such a busy day. I almost didn't make it home for my bath, but Mommy said I was stinky and needed to get clean for church. But she was even more pooped than me, so she went to bed and left me with Daddy. She deserved an early night, though.

Mommy is such a good Mommy and I love being with her all day, but I need (and love) Daddy time. And, any way, Mommy needs Mommy time sometimes. It doesn't matter who puts me to bed, but Daddy can't sing like Mommy!

Memphis in September!

2009-09-19T23:17:00.000-05:00

It's September in Memphis and that means it's Cooper-Young Festival time. At least, that's what Mommy and Daddy have been telling me for a few weeks now. And I was able to experience my first CYF today. There were lots and lots of people. And they were all over those few blocks around the intersection of Cooper and Young.

We saw some really cool art. We wanted some, too, but it was out of our price range. That's too bad, especially considering that Mommy and Daddy got some of our best pieces at the festival. (Oh, I colored a picture the other day. I'll have to scan it and post it tomorrow.)

Also, the smell of corn dogs and funnel cakes and crepes had me on edge. I really wanted something, but then I filled up on Goldfish. Oh, well; I guess I had enough at the fair.

At any rate, we stopped at the new Chick-Fil-A (the only one actually in town) on the way to yet another concert at the Shell. Farmer Jason, of Jason and the Scorchers fame, was playing. He was great fun, too, until the weather hit. After a week of rain, you'd think the sky would clear up. But, no. And we didn't even get to hear "Punk Rock Skunk."

That's okay, though; it did give me an excuse to play in the rain. I ran around, up and down the hill. And I only did a face-plant once. Then, in front of the stage, I found a big puddle. Well, that was just too cool. I stomped and danced around that puddle for quite a while. And it made the rain stop, after which I continued to run up and down the big hill.

Then, I got to meet Farmer Jason. He winked at me and signed my CD. Too cool. Too cool.

Grandmommy Time

2009-09-17T13:42:00.000-05:00

Mommy had a lunch meeting today and needed to get some work done over lunch. That means she didn't need to be chasing me around. So, who did we call? Grandmommy.

Thanks, Grandmommy. I had fun and still took a nap.

Hey Ya, Chuck

2009-09-17T06:32:00.000-05:00

Teeth

2009-09-14T21:50:00.000-05:00

I have cut my molars...and a couple other new teeth. Mommy saw the molars coming last week and then, today, she felt around back there and found more.

Fall Fun, Part the Second

2009-09-12T20:19:00.001-05:00

Today was another big Fall day.

After sleeping extra late, we got up and went down to the Farmer's Market. We didn't get much, but we did get our staples of tomatoes, basil, and honey straws.

Today was Wolf River Day at sites all over Memphis. There were several clean-up activities happening all around and then several expos as well.

The youth at our church were helping with a group called SOAR, or Save Our American Raptors, so we walked over to see what was going on. We were all excited about seeing the birds of prey fly around a gymnasium, but we got there too early and, by the time the program was starting, I was getting pretty antsy. So, we had to leave.

Then, this evening, we were back at the Levitt Shell for another concert in the Fall series. We really enjoy it there and I have so much fun. The children's show was a performance by Rattletree Marimba, which is a great band that uses traditional Zimbabwean instruments and plays fun music to which to dance. I ran all around and danced and played with a couple of my friends who were there.

It pooped me out, too. It's been a big weekend already!

Fall Fun, Part One

2009-09-12T20:05:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, we welcomed Fall with my very first trip to the fair! You know it's Fall when the fair's in town.

The old Mid-South Fair has packed up and left Memphis for Mississippi, so we went to the Delta Fair instead. Mommy and Grandaddy took me and we had a blast.

We (and that includes me!) ate so much junk. Mommy said that's the main reason to go to the fair and the main reason Daddy doesn't care for the fair. We had Pronto Pups (corn dogs) and Funnel Cakes and Cotton Candy and Fudge and, well, I can't remember what else.

I had two favorites. One was the petting zoo. I never did get the whole feeding-the-animals-out-my-hand thing, but that's what Mommy's for. She fed the, while I loved on the animals. And they enjoyed licking some of the fair food off of me, too. The other was the life-sized Elmo. I couldn't get enough of him.

Oh, and we ran into Edens and Mrs Carol. Me and Edens played in a mud puddle together.

Anyway, we had lots of fun, but I was pooped afterwards. Mommy had to give me a bath, though, to get all the dirt and grime off of me. But I was in bed way early and slept over an hour later than usual, too.

I can't wait until next year!

Good Luck Charm

2009-09-08T20:14:00.002-05:00

I am a good luck charm!

Daddy went to see his football team scrimmage and then went to their first game. Both times, they were beat pretty badly.

Then, he started taking me. And guess what? They've won the last two games just as badly!

Go Wildcats! Whoo-hoo!

Oh, Glorious Labor Day!

2009-09-08T19:57:00.004-05:00

Thank the heavens for Labor Day!

Following up on my/our busy weekend, filled with all kinds of fun activities, the extended weekend proved a grand way to top it all off.

First, after Mommy convinced Daddy to get off the computer, we walked to the zoo. I got to see a lion asleep on his back, with his head back and mouth wide open. And the panther looked me right in the eye. (I wasn't scared, but that Panther sure did turn around and walk off!)

Then, in the farm, I tried to reach through the fence to touch the donkeys; they were pretty close, but they were preoccupied with eating straw off the ground. A couple chickens were out roaming around and one pecked on the footrest of my stroller.

The elephants smelled just awful and the polar bear didn't want to swim by the glass wall, but two black bears smelled my berries and came over to the fence. And they had a big sidewalk sale and Mommy picked my out an elephant puppet.

After me and Mommy took naps (separately), we gathered up our things and went swimming at Aunt Cathy's house, where we had dinner plans. I played and played around her house, had dinner, and played some more. Finally, I wamed up to Aunt Cathy and loved on her some. (You just have to smooze the ladies, especially when they have a pool and feed you good!)

Like I said, it was a good (extended) weekend!

Monkin' It Up!

2009-09-07T07:45:00.004-05:00

I had a blast last night at the Levitt Shell! At first, it was a little low-energy, as the Tibetan monks started off with some meditative chanting. But, as the sun set, they started dancing. And that was high-energy and tons of fun. I especially enjoyed the Snow Lion Dance. I did't make it long past intermission, though, as it was past my bedtime.

Here's the best video of the Snow Lion Dance I could find on YouTube (the last couple minutes are the best):

For more, check out Daddy's post here.

Fun in the Sun!

2009-09-06T15:42:00.002-05:00

We went to the splash park today at Peabody Park and Skinner Community Center for the Disabled, thinking that it would close Labor Day. However, we found out that we still have another week. We wanted to take some pictures before the end a summer, but our camera's not working. So, here's a generic photo:

My New Cuz'

2009-09-06T07:26:00.004-05:00

Here is a picture of my new little cousin, Jayda:

Big Time Day

2009-09-05T18:44:00.004-05:00

I had such a big time day today. And I had so much fun!

First of all, I slept late. I'm a morning person myself, but I felt bad for Mommy and Daddy, so I decided to let them sleep in today. I'm a compassionate person like that.

Once we got up and moving, we trekked down to the Farmer's Market. That's one of our new Saturday routines, now that Daddy is down to only one job. But this week was extra special. Some friends of ours, who are part of a co-op with one of the farms (Whitton Farms), were out of town and gave us their weekly share. So we came home with a bounty of veggies, as well as a bouquet of flowers.

After a short nap and some playtime, Mommy decided we needed to get out of the house. So, the two of us went up to the church to play on the toddler playground, leaving Daddy watching football on the couch. Well, I think I tuckered Mommy out, so we didn't stay too long.

At any rate, we had to get home in time to get ready to go again. Like I said, it was a big time day.

Once home, we packed up a picnic and a blanket, then headed for the Levitt Shell. (In case you don't recall, the Shell does 50 free concerts each year, half in the Spring and half in the Fall.) We went to lots of concerts there in the Spring and the Fall season just started this week; in fact, today was the first children's show of the season.

The Billy Jonas Band played today and it was lots of fun--and the live show was way better than the recordings. All of us kids (and our parents, too) got to be part of the band. And we learned that almost anything can be a musical instrument, as Billy and his friends played trash cans and water jugs and all kinds of neat stuff. I danced and ran around, took a break to drink some juice, and then went back at it.

It was so much fun, a sign of things to come over the next month of free concerts. Tomorrow, we are going to see The Mystical Arts of Tibet, performed by Tibetan monks from Drepung Loseling Monastery-in-exile in India. Come out and join us if you can.

I'm A Maniac, Maniac...

2009-09-03T19:28:00.002-05:00

I'm a maniac, maniac on the floor. And I'm dancing like I never danced before.

Yep, that's me, the dancin' dancin' dancin'...dancin' machine. And I dance like they do in Flashdance, all running in place and all, though sometimes I just stomp. Then, when I'm done running, I put my hands on my hips and shake it. I do this many times throughout the day.

Oh, and I'm especailly zealous in my dancing when Mommy lets me have half of her ice cream for desert--like she did tonight.

New Cousin!

2009-09-01T16:10:00.002-05:00

I have a new cousin! Her name is Jayda, but we already knew that. She came yesterday and we can't wait to meet her.

So, welcome to the world, Jayda!

Ants in My Pants

2009-08-30T18:43:00.002-05:00

I'm building character. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.

I was playing with a puppy and we were both super excited. Well, she ended up jumping up and scratching my face around my eye.

Plus, I fell and fell again. And again. I got lots of bumps and bruises.

Today, we went out to Shelby Farms, a 4500 acre park at the edge of the city. I had so much fun running around the open spaces, up and down hills, through tall and short grasses...until I stopped in the middle of an ant hill. Fortunately, Daddy was there to scoop me up and Mommy was there to wash all the ants off quickly.

It has just been a traumatic few days. But, you know what, apple sauce makes it all better. Don't believe me? Stick your hands in some apple sauce and wipe it all over you face. You'll be better in no time, I promise!

Whoo-Hoo!!!

2009-08-29T16:02:00.002-05:00

Daddy only has one job now!!! Whoo-hoo!!! Thursday night/Friday morning was his last commitment working at the airport.

And that means two things. First, it means that he will have more time and energy for me and Mommy, so he'll be a better Daddy and a better husband. Secondly, it means that he will have more time and energy to devote to his students, so he'll be a better teacher. (It also means that he will be able to sleep more, but he doesn't care much about sleep anyway.)

Anyway, me and Mommy (and Layla) are super excited to have Daddy home at night.

No Fear!

2009-08-23T17:24:00.002-05:00

I am a climber. It's official.

First, I started climbing up onto Mommy and Daddy's bed.

The other day, Mommy walks in the living room and I'm standing on top of the coffee table.

Then, yesterday, at the park, I climbed up onto a picnic table.

And, today, I climbed up onto the seat of the step ladder in the kitchen. I was standing and waving my arms and squealing in delight. (We'll be giving that back to you soon, Grandmommy!)

Five minutes ago, I climbed onto the armchair and onto the arm, at which point I had to be saved from falling onto my head.

The list goes on.

I have no fear. I climb on anything and everything I can. So, you better watch out.

Spatial Skills

2009-08-23T17:19:00.003-05:00

I learned a new skill today. Grandaddy got me some wooden 'Kathedral' blocks for my birthday. Usually, Mommy and Daddy will build things...and I will destroy whatever they build.

Today, though, I discovered that the cylindrical blocks will fit through these other blocks with a hole cut out of the middle. You know, round block fits through the round hole. And I spent the next fifteen minutes practicing my new skill with Mommy before proudly showing Daddy.

Recognition Skills

2009-08-22T20:47:00.002-05:00

Guess what! I am so smart.

Mommy was reading a book today and came to a page with a dog and a cat and a bear. She asked me where the dog was and I pointed to the dog.

My recognition skills are getting better by the day.

Outside

2009-08-22T20:33:00.003-05:00

We have a little cold/cool front coming through the MidSouth, which means that being outside is suddenly tolerable again. So, we are taking full advantage of the situation.

Yesterday, me and Mommy went swimming with my friend, Michael, and his Mom.

Then, today, me and Mommy and Daddy went to the big park (that would be Overton Park). We had planned to meet up with Uncle Grant and Aunt Kelly, along with their new puppy, Maya. It turns out, they invited a few friends, who also brought their respective doggies. Plus, several other dogs at the park decided to come say hey. So, I ended up playing with lots of dogs.

And, in addition to running around the large greensward, I figured out that I can (and like to) climb on picnic tables. This morning, I discovered that I can climb onto the coffee table and, of course, I had to apply my new skill in a different context. Mommy does not like me using my new skill.

The Ultimate Showdown

2009-08-21T18:27:00.004-05:00

Vocabulary

2009-08-19T17:27:00.003-05:00

My vocabulary is increasing, along with my recognition of objects. When I see a dog, I say, 'dog.' When I see a duck, I say, 'duck.' (Really, it's more like 'dah' and 'duh,' but they are different and distinct from each other and from 'dad.')

Also, I am learning sign language, which helps me not get as frustrated because it allows me to communicate what I'm feeling better. So, I can sign for 'more' and for 'please.' We're working on 'all done,' but I'm not quite there yet.

I'm over saying, 'bye bye,' but I still wave on occasion. And I like to clap at things that make me happy.

And, of course, I like to run around the house, screaming like a crazy person. It's so much fun. In fact, you should try it. It's so much better than antidepressants!

'It Was A Good Day'

2009-08-16T19:26:00.003-05:00

To quote Ice Cube, 'I got to say today was a good day.'

Me and Mommy got up and played this morning ('Just waking up in the morning, gotta thank God'), letting Daddy sleep in. And we made blueberry muffins for breakfast ('And Momma cooked a breakfast with no hog/I got my grub on, but didn't pig out'). Then, we woke up Daddy and the two of us played while Mommy got ready for church. At church, I got to sleep in Ms Jobe's lap. They say she is spoiling me, but I don't mind.

After church, we went to Central BBQ and Mommy tried to feed me food from home. Well, I wasn't having any of that! Would you? I wanted some BBQ. And I got some BBQ!

Mommy and Daddy had to do some shopping and drug me around the mall all afternoon. That wasn't very fun at all. But, on the way home, 'saw the police and they rolled right past me/no flexin', didn't even look in a [toddler's] direction.'

On the way home, though, we saw some friends playing soccer ('Which court, are y'all playing basketball?...um, I mean, futbol) and Daddy told me he would take me up there after we dropped off Mommy. We didn't play any soccer, but we sure did play! Well, at least I played. Daddy just talked to a couple of friends while I ran all over the big field.

I played with Lockard a little, but only from a distance because he has a runny nose. Then, I played a little with Edens and Will, but they are a little bigger than me. And I played with a big dog some, too. But, mostly, I just explored the huge sideline area of the soccer field, getting some much needed independent time.

Back at home, Mommy and Daddy let me play with my food tonight! And I wiped apple sauce all over my face and all in my hair! It was way fun! You should try it.

I tell you what, 'Today I didn't even have to use my AK/I got to say it was a good day.'

New Member of the Family

2009-08-16T08:42:00.002-05:00

Uncle Grant and Aunt Kelly got a puppy yesterday. Her name is Maya and she is a mix between American Bulldog and Labrador Retriever (and possibly something else, considering her resemblence to a Pit Bull). I like her very much. She is a lot smaller than our dog, Layla, so I had to be careful around her. Maya is very pretty, almost as pretty as Layla.

Farmer's Market

2009-08-15T11:01:00.003-05:00

This morning, me and Mommy and Daddy got up and went to the Farmer's Market downtown at Central Station. It just may become a regular part of our weekly schedule, now that Daddy is working during the daytime.

We saw quite a few of our friends and listened to some good acoustic music. And there were many great vendors, one of which gave me a popsicle. How cool is that?!? It was yummy, but I was so tuckered out afterwards that I crashed.

Oh, and I should mention that my friend Preston from back in Atlanta, who is two weeks younger than me, is now a big brother. So, congrats to Preston and his (ever expanding) family!

ABC Tilly and the Wall!!!

2009-08-13T17:36:00.003-05:00

So, for those who don't know, I love Sesame Street. And the Sesame Street website is my favorite. I even have my own screen there, called 'My Street.'

Anyway, here's one of the coolest things on My Street:

Molly Gonzales' La Casita

2009-08-12T17:08:00.003-05:00

My family loves Molly's. All of them do. Someone from my family goes at least once a week.

Well, I love Molly's, too. But not just for the food. I love to run up and down this ramp they have that connects the two main areas of the place (formerly, smoking and non). When I start getting restless, just set me loose. And I'll run up and down...and up...and down..and...well, you get the picture.

It's so much fun. You should come to Molly's with me and see for yourself.

In Praise of Naptime...

2009-08-08T21:32:00.003-05:00

The NY Times editorial staff, of all people, came out in praise of naptime this week. How about that?!?!

Naptime for one, naptime for all.

Check it out: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/05/opinion/05wed4.html?_r=2&th&emc=th

Sid!

2009-08-08T19:27:00.003-05:00

Mommy went to the movies (to the movies!) with Aunt Sandra, who is in town from Atlanta visiting.

That means me and Daddy are having boy's night!

Anyway, we were watching some cartoons online (I love online cartoons, by the way) and we found this cool song from 'Sid the Science Kid.'

Check it:

Big Kid School

2009-08-07T16:35:00.002-05:00

Mommy and me went to Daddy's school--that's the big kid school--to help him get his room and door decorated.

I got to meet Daddy's colleagues and they are all so nice. Of course, they thought I was something special and some kind of cute!

Big kid school starts Monday morning.

Oh, and Daddy will be coaching baseball in addition to his teaching duties. Check out the crazy Wildcat, the school mascot:

Learning New Things

2009-08-03T18:33:00.003-05:00

So, Mommy and me are staying home again. That means no more school, right? Wrong. Everyone knows my Mommy is the best at teaching little ones and, well, I'm a little one, which means she's teaching me.

For a while now, she has been trying to get me to learn some sign language. And I have been putting up pretty stiff resistance. That is, until today, when I said please in sign language.

And I now recognize both a fish and a car. How do you know? Well, I make associations. When we get to the fish page in one of my Eric Carle books, I make a fish face like Mommy has taught me. Then, when we get to the car page, I go 'vroom vroom' like Mommy has taught me. I've been barking at dogs on and off for a while now; it comes and goes. And, as previously mentioned, I like to go 'mooooo.'

Daddy, who officially reported for duty at his new job today, has taught me to make a fun clicking noise with my tongue and the roof of my mouth. That makes us both giggle.

Big Day

2009-08-01T19:22:00.003-05:00

Today was a busy day, full of family and friends and fun!

First, me and Mommy played so Daddy could get some sleep. Once, I crawled up into bed with Daddy and tried to wake him up, but he was out cold.

We were planning to go to Aunt Cathy's house for lunch and swimming, but the weather did not cooperate. Aunt Cathy called to say that she didn't think I needed to be out in the pouring rain. She and Ms Joan were in midtown and could just stop by to see me. So, Mommy made lunch for everyone, to go with the peach cobbler she was making with the peaches Pa and Mema picked in Georgia. And we had good times.

After they left, me and Daddy let Mommy take a nap. We played, then I took a nap, and then we played some more. Finally, I went and woke Mommy up.

Then, Grandmommy called. She and Grandaddy were in midtown and wanted to stop by for a short visit before heading home for dinner. So, we played and read books. They brought mail for me, a birthday card from Aunt Johnna and Uncle Pat that I just loved. It had Sesame Street folks on it and I had to show it to everyone several times.

All in all, a good day.

Crazy Kid!!!

2009-07-31T19:22:00.003-05:00

Maybe you saw this, and maybe you didn't. But, if you didn't, you definitely should. So, I will give you an opportunity to watch one crazy kid. Watch the video below and make sure to watch to the end because that's the funny part.

Cake!!!

2009-07-28T21:20:00.003-05:00

As promised, here are pictures of Mommy's wonderful creations. That would be my Cookie Monster cake and cupcakes.

She's so awesome!

Just like Cookie Monster.

New Photos!

2009-07-28T21:04:00.003-05:00

Guess what. For my birthday, cousin Jamie upgraded the Flickr account, which means that there will be no more waiting for the month to end to add new photos. How cool is that!?!

Photos are being uploaded as I type. Lots of them, too.

So, check out the Flickr page.

Party, Etc

2009-07-27T20:46:00.003-05:00

I had a nice party and want to thank everyone who helped me celebrate my first birthday. I got so many presents, which you know is great. But it also made me happy to see so many good friends and family members celebrating my first year alive.

I'm sorry I didn't feel so good. I promise, I'm usually not fussy like that. But I've been taking antibiotics to get over my sick. Plus, I really have never had that many people over before.

If you weren't there, I'll get pictures up soon. I promise. So, check back in a day or two.

But you should know that Mommy made the coolest cake and cupcakes ever. I didn't even want to destroy them! She made a big Cookie Monster and little Cookie Monsters with half cookies in their mouths. She used Aunt Sara's icing recipe, which is sinful, but I'm not sure if even Aunt Sara the artist could make Cookie Monster like Mommy. My Mommy is the best!

Aunt Cathy made some yummy looking punch, but, for some reason, nobody would let me have any. But Aunty Cathy did keep telling me not to worry because she would introduce me to Vodka one day. I don't know what that means, but it sure sounds fun.

And Pacher made these wonderful spring rolls and desert egg rolls. She just started her own business called The Little Egg Roll Shop and you should totally give her some money in exchange for some tasty treats. Check her out here. The site's still under construction, but you can see a picture and get her email there.

What else did we have? Oh, that's right. Pickles! Of course, we had pickles. Mommy even made cards, with the 'Sour Pickles' having a sour-faced picture of me and the 'Sweet Pickles' having a sweet-faced picture of me. How cute is that!?!

Boy's Day

2009-07-24T15:50:00.002-05:00

Me and Daddy have had a fun day today, especially since the medicine has worked its magic.

First, we played. Then, we napped.

And, then, we needed to get out of the house. So, we walked to the zoo to see the sea lion show and they made me giggle. We stopped on the way at Cafe Eclectic for a pastry and I fell asleep on the way home.

Now, we're playing and waiting on Mommy to get home.

A Few Pics

2009-07-24T11:50:00.004-05:00

So, there are a few pics on the Flickr page. We're are at our limit for the month, though, so expect to see a lot next week. Here are a few that didn't make it this month.

Sick Again, But...

2009-07-24T11:17:00.005-05:00

Yep, I'm sick again, although I was fine when we went to the doctor on Tuesday. So we had to go back yesterday. I have another case of double ear infections, plus a little viral infection, plus a bit of conjunctivitis (that's pink eye for the laity).

Good news, though.

(1) It's all connected, so I only have to take the one medicine. And it's already starting to work.

(2) Me and Daddy are having another Boy's Day today.

(3) Grandma and Pa are coming tonight.

Staying Home

2009-07-23T13:02:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, the day after my birthday, I woke up sick. Daddy had orientation, so Mommy stayed home with me.

Today, I am feeling better, but not enough to go to school. Daddy was free today, so we're having a boys day. After some playing and fussing and napping, we walked to the zoo.

It's been so long since the weather has been cool enough to go to the zoo. In fact, I wasn't even walking the last time we went. Well, let me tell you, it's pretty cool when you can walk. Daddy let me walk around the indoor section of the polar bear exhibit and I got to see the bears swim by just above my head. It was so cool!

And I can't wait until the new baby grizzlies get here. They won't be able to make it in the wild because their Mommy was killed. It's very sad, but at least our zoo could take them.

In other news, I think I may have developed a case of pink eye. Yuck! We're going to the doctor as soon as Mommy gets home from work.

Birthday

2009-07-21T18:50:00.004-05:00

Can you believe I had to get shots on my birthday?!?! How mean is that? But I'm a big boy and didn't cry...much. I am a big boy: 31 in long and 24 lb 5 oz. Also, the doctor's office has this really cool fish tank. I just love to yell and bang on the glass and make funny faces at the fishes.

After we got home, Daddy turned my carseat around. Yep, I now face forward! And it's so much fun, too. I just laughed and giggled. You people have been holding out on me, not letting me see what's going on. I know now and there's no going back.

We went to Memphis Pizza Cafe for my birthday tonight with Aunt Cathy and Grandmommy. It's my favorite! It's way better than those other pizza places where kids celebrate their birthdays.

I opened presents from Mommy and Daddy. And I got a fun ball that bounces everywhere, an Anamalz elephant, and two books. You know how I love books. Well, I got Ten Little Elvi, as an homage to Memphis and the King, and that great classic, Where the Wild Things Are.

Oh, Oh, Oh!!! And I got to eat a cupcake! Sweet! White cake with vanilla icing, from our neighborhood bakery/cafe, Cafe Eclectic. It was some kind of yummy!

But I was so tuckered out after my big day. I fell asleep on the way home from dinner, even though it was over an hour earlier than usual.

I'll get picture up soon of my birthday dinner.

Birthday Morning

2009-07-21T14:05:00.006-05:00

As you know, today is my very 1st birthday. Too bad the weather is all gloomy.

And, when I woke up today, I found a Laugh & Learn musical table! We have one at school that I like, so I knew just what to do.

Mommy and Daddy let me have my big present first thing. The rest of their presents have to wait until dinner with Grandmommy and Aunt Cathy at my favorite place to eat, Memphis Pizza Cafe. Ultimate Cheese, here I come!

Here's a picture of me playing with my fun table, as well as another of me getting dressed for school.

One Year Ago...

2009-07-20T20:22:00.003-05:00

One year ago, I was in Mommy's tummy at Emory-Crawford Long Hospital about to meet the world. I didn't come out until the next morning, though.

Mommy is baking banana muffins so that all my friends at school can celebrate my birthday with me tomorrow. And, today, we went birthday shopping. But don't worry because I slept through most of it and then played with Daddy, ignoring all the fun stuff Mommy had for me. I didn't want to spoil my big day.

Also, I got this cool Pop Art book in the mail from my friends, Avery and Zoe (and Aunt Sara and Uncle Mike). We go way back--all the way to when I was born.

Happy Birthday, Grandaddy!

2009-07-19T14:45:00.003-05:00

Grandaddy's birthday is this week, but he'll be out of town. (He'll be back for my party next Sunday, though!)

So, let's all say, "Happy Birthday, Grandaddy!"

I bet no one can guess what I got him.

If you think you can, do tell. Reply with all guesses and the winner will get...well, the satisfaction of knowing she/he knows me well enough to know what I would get my Grandaddy.

Striding Right!

2009-07-19T08:33:00.006-05:00

My shoes had been getting a little tight. Plus, Mommy and Daddy noticed my ankles not supporting me as they should; they were starting to roll.

So, off we went to Stride-Rite for some good shoes with support. It took me a minute to get used to them, but I did, though I have had to quicken my pace.

(Do you see the mess I made in the kitchen? Tee-hee!)

School's (Almost) Out

2009-07-17T18:48:00.004-05:00

It's the weekend!

And that means I only have one more week before school is out. After that, me and Mommy are staying home again.

In other news, the mail carrier brought me birthday presents today. My friends, Naomi and Fay (and Aunt Sarah and Uncle Dan), sent two books about friends. Immediately, we had to read them over and over and over again. And, few days ago, I got book from a lady at church. I just love to read.

The past couple days were fun, too, because Daddy finished his training program and has had more time to play.

Baby Gift

2009-07-16T19:46:00.003-05:00

My Aunt Hillary is having a baby girl soon. We won't be able to make it down there before she is born, so we are going to send our baby gifts back with Grandma and Pa when they come for my birthday party. So me and Mommy and Daddy went shopping for baby gifts today.

I can't wait to meet Ms Jayda. Can you?

New Photos Up!

2009-07-13T21:49:00.003-05:00

Hola! It's that time again, the time when the Flickr page is finally updated. That means lot of photos for me to share with you! So, check it out. Here are some teasers.

Rock-N-Romp Photos

2009-07-13T20:02:00.003-05:00

We had a grand time at the Rock-N-Romp this weekend. What? You don't believe me? Well, I've got pictures to prove it. And there are more at the Flickr site.

Mourning an Elephant Calf

2009-07-12T20:54:00.004-05:00

It was an up and down week for the Memphis Zoo community, as well as the whole mid-South. A baby elephant, without even a name, died. She has since been given the name, Lil' Girl, which is what the zookeepers had called her during her few days out of the womb.

We first had exciting news at the zoo this week. After nearly two years in her mommy's tummy, a baby girl elephant was finally born.

But, then, something bad happened. The mommy accidentally killed the baby. The baby was falling and the mommy, Asali, tried to help her up. In the process, Asali's tusk hurt the baby and the injuries were too severe to save her life.

Everyone is really sad.

Rock-N-Romp

2009-07-12T07:04:00.004-05:00

Yesterday, we went to yet another concert at the Levitt Shell at Overton Park. But this one was different. This one was a Rock-N-Romp. Click here to read the coverage from the paper.

Rock-N-Romp is when parents get together in a backyard for a concert they would have gone to a club to see were it not for having the kids along. Instead of going out to a bar, Rock-N-Romp brings the bar to the parents and makes it family-friendly in the process.

The Rock-N-Romp yesterday was in a very big yard (the Park) and lots of people showed up. They had kegs for the parents, sprinklers and wading pools for the little ones, and good music for all.

The lineup was: Robby Grant (of Vending Machine), Scandaliz Vandalistz, and the Kenny Brown Band.

I enjoyed our pizza picnic (Ultimate Cheese from Memphis Pizza Cafe) and I danced between bits. I enjoyed walking down the big hill, although walking back up was a little more difficult. But I was not so sure about all the big kids playing in the wading pools and sprinklers. That's okay, though, because we went swimming yesterday anyway.

It was a good day. How was yours?

Goober

2009-07-11T12:51:00.005-05:00

Look at these pictures of me. Am I a goober or what?

The Cow Says...

2009-07-11T12:29:00.002-05:00

..."Moooooooo!"

I've been quite talkative lately, learning new things to say. Earlier, I said "pickle." And Mommy was quoting the old See & Say, saying, "The cow says, 'Moooooo!'" Well, I picked up the "Mooooo!" You should hear me. I have other things I say, as well.

Happy 4th!

2009-07-04T19:16:00.004-05:00

Mommy is so disappointed at me, because I am not going to make it to the fireworks and the music and all those things she loves about the 4th of July. But, no worries, we're all set for tomorrow evening's concert. The River City Concert Band is playing their annual patriotic concert at church, to be joined by our church choir and three other church choirs from around town. Mommy has been waiting all year for this.

But, alas, I may not get to go, as I am again under the weather. We're hoping it's just teething, since I am drooling more than I have in my life. Yet, Mommy couldn't find any signs of teeth in my mouth and I have a fever that is higher than a teething fever. I sure hope it's not another ear infection. Yuck.

At least Daddy has been home and rested, though. He plays with me everyday when he gets home, but not for long, because he is so tired and has to go to bed. That's why I was so happy yesterday, since Daddy had no school and no training and no work, which meant more time for me.

We went swimming at Aunt Cathy's pool, then we went out to Grandmommy and Grandaddy's house for dinner. This morning, Mommy and me went shopping with Grandmommy while Daddy slept. But then me and Daddy played some. And Daddy gave me a bath for the first time all week, since he was actually awake for bathtime.

The summer is almost over, though, so things should calm down at little bit pretty soon.

Oh, and I am so excited because our friend, Bridget, just had her baby girl. I can't wait to meet her and play with her.

Walking (Photos)

2009-06-28T08:35:00.002-05:00

Hey, everybody! Look at me walk!

Musical Fun, Continued

2009-06-27T21:01:00.003-05:00

Well, my musical fun continued into a second concert of the evening. That's right; I enjoyed a double feature of musical fun.

The Funzzies were really fun when they focused on the traditional African song and dance and drumbeats. But we're not that into the tween/kid genre that is popular on the Disney channel. And that's what the other half of their show was.

We didn't mind, though, because Mommy packed a picnic for us all. Plus, we had a few friends there and I played with them.

There was a break in between the kid's show and the regular show. And I took the opportunity to strip down to my diaper in the over-100 degree heat index, eat about half of Mommy's ice cream, and roll around in the grass. I have learned over the past few weeks at the Shell that it is none too easy to walk in any direction on a hill. Rolling around, however, is quite another story.

Cordero, a Latin rock group, was the evening show and they were some kind of fun. I danced and rolled and danced some more. Anyone in Atlanta (um, Aunt Sara) should totally check them out tomorrow at the Corndogorama Festival in East Atlanta Village.

We had to leave early, though. I had a big day, first going swimming and then catching two concerts--and all in the blazing heat. And I stayed out past my bedtime by a good bit.

Musical Fun for All Ages

2009-06-27T13:00:00.003-05:00

This is the last week of concerts for the Spring season at the Levitt Shell. And tonight is the last show for kids (but not just kids).

If you can, you should join us for "The Funzzies," presented by Watoto Memphis, which is part of the Watoto De' Afrika (Swahili for 'children of Africa') performing arts program.

This is how tonight's program is described: "The Funzzies tell about a group of children who travel to the musical city of Funzville with high-energy music and dance."

We'll be there. You should be, too!

I can't wait until the Fall season starts up with 25 more free concerts.

1st Painting

2009-06-22T19:09:00.002-05:00

I made my very first painting today! I'm now well on my way to being a great artist.

Mr George works in maintenance at our church, where I also go to school. Well, he's been out for medical reasons and some of us kids made him pictures.

My teacher said I really enjoyed myself--and was about the only one in class to like the paint. I thought the paint on my hands was just fantastic. And I knew exactly what to do, which was to wipe it and smear it all over the paper. I had such a blast that I was all in a huff when my teacher washed the paint off my hands. I just wanted to paint some more.

Maybe, if you're lucky, I'll paint something for you soon!

Concert & Picnic

2009-06-21T21:37:00.006-05:00

For lunch today, we took Daddy and Grandaddy to Central BBQ for BBQ Nachos. We were going to catch a Redbirds game, an old Father's Day tradition from when Mommy and Daddy last lived in Memphis, and get nachos there. But, alas, the Redbirds were not in town this weekend. We still got nachos, though. Yum, yum!

After lunch, I slept and I slept and I slept some more. I slept the whole day away and wouldn't wake up until about 6. Well, Mommy and Daddy figured I'd probably not want to go to bed on time after all that sleeping, so we went to a concert.

We packed up our stuff, including a little picnic dinner for me, and headed over to the Levitt Shell to hear Andes Manta. They're a group of four brothers originally from Ecuador who play tradition (like, thousands of years old) music from the Andes mountains. And, although they play a few guitars, showing the influence of the European settlers/conquerors, most of their instruments are traditional. And totally neat-o mosquito, too.

Despite the heat and humidity of the Memphis summer (around 90 degrees, but feeling much worse), I had loads of fun. First, I played and ate with Mommy. Then, me and Daddy played and ate some more. It's so nice to have my appetite back. And I danced to the music and had a time.

Then, Mrs Carol came down and played with me. I had been eye-balling her sitting behind us in a lawn chair, until I finally enticed her to come play. She's so nice.

All the excitement and the heat and the fact that I stayed out past my bedtime just tuckered me out. Maybe I'll sleep in tomorrow, but I doubt it!

Daddy Day

2009-06-21T08:26:00.005-05:00

Mommy and i got up this morning and made some coffee cake for Daddy. We were planning on waking him up when it was ready. But then we got to playing and I played so hard and so loud that I woke up Daddy before it was all ready.

That's okay, though, because I wanted to play with Daddy anyway and give him his first Father's Day ties and socks. Ties and socks are the standard gifts, sure, but Daddy really needed them. Did you know he wears a tie everyday to teach? It's true. So, we wouldn't him to not have enough, would we?

I am feeling so much better, full of energy. And I actually have an appetite again, which is good since I lost a few ounces while I was sick. Just like the doctor said, I'm as good as new by the weekend. I still have to take my medicine for a few more days, though.

Oh, by the way, I should send a 'Happy Father's Day' to Pa and Grandaddy. I'll see Grandaddy today, but I won't see Pa until my birthday--which is exactly one month away. (Yep, that's right, I am eleven months old today!)

Eating Like A Big Boy

2009-06-20T08:51:00.003-05:00

Oh, yeah. I almost forgot. For the past week or two, I have been learning a new skill: feeding myself. And I've gotten pretty good at it. Occassionally, I'll drink from my sippy cup, but only if the stopper is out and only if there's lemonade in there. I'm pretty good at holding my own bottle now, although I regressed in that regard during my sick days. And I can feed myself with a fork, if Mommy or Daddy puts the food on it for me. See?

Feeling Better Already!

2009-06-20T08:31:00.003-05:00

I've only had a few doses of the medicine the doctor gave me and already it's having a big impact! I feel lots better. I'm up and about, walking and crawling all over, playing with this and that. It's such a vast improvement from literally sleeping all day--but only if someone was holding me, 'cause otherwise I was crying. I'm also happy to be making squeaks and squeals and words and all sorts of regular noises, rather than the pathetic little whimpers and cries I had been making.

So, thanks, doc! And thanks as well to Mommy for taking such great care of me. And to Grandmommy and Grandaddy for stopping by and sitting with a sick boy.